Types of Kitchen and Bathroom Sinks

If you are doing a remodel in your kitchen or bathroom, one of the most important changes you will make is with the sink. With numerous styles available, you have to decide which one fits your décor and size of room to be functional and stylish.

Kitchen Sinks – Choosing the Material
First, consider the material for your sink. Stainless steel has been a popular option for several years. It is not as expensive as other materials and it can be installed in various ways. Choose one with a spray coating to help reduce the noise that comes with stainless steel sinks.

While this material is an economical choice, it does scratch more easily and shows water spots. It is more resistant to stains and can withstand heat better than other materials.
Cast iron is one of the oldest materials used in kitchen sinks and is durable and long-lasting. It is covered in enamel and resists scratches and dents. It is easy to clean and holds its color well. This material is more expensive than stainless steel, but will last longer.

Granite or quartz composite sinks are a modern design that is very popular. They are stain-resistant and durable. However, they are not the most inexpensive style of sink that you can buy.

Choosing a Style
Many sinks are just one bowl, which is beneficial for small spaces where counter space is limited. You can also choose a larger single basin to give you more room for cleaning pots and pans.

A double bowl is the traditional design, but many modern kitchens feature them as well. In some cases, both basins are the same size, while other times one is quite a bit smaller. The larger bowl is ideal for pots and pans while the small one works for silverware and other little or fragile items.

Farmhouse sinks feature a unique design where the front edge of the sink is part of the counter. They may be one or two basins and are often very deep to give you more space.

Choosing the Mount
A kitchen sink can be either a top mount or under-mount. What this means is that the sink is mounted either on top of the counter-top or under it. Under-mount sinks are easier to clean because debris doesn't get trapped around the edges. It is the modern option, but top mounts are easier to install. These are the considerations for kitchen sinks. You will have similar factors to think about for the bathroom sink.

Bathroom Sinks – Choosing the Material
In addition to the materials you see in kitchen sinks – metal and cast iron, you can choose from several other materials. One of the more exotic choices is wood. It is elegant and stylish but often requires special care for cleaning. It is best used in guest baths.
Concrete is another option, and it is a durable choice. Stone is a natural substance that is beautiful, but can show spots more than other materials.

Stainless steel is just one of the choices for metals in bathroom sinks. Copper is elegant and a lovely addition to any bath. Glass is a modern choice that has many options for design. One of the benefits of choosing this material is that you can make it any color that you want to fit with your décor. The downside is that it is more prone to scratches and cracks than other materials.

Solid surface is another option where the sink is part of the counter-top. Since it is all one piece, it is easier to install and can be long-lasting.

Choosing the Type of Installation
Bathroom sinks may be mounted in several ways. Each option has its own advantages, depending on your overall design. The most common method is the top mount. It is also referred to as drop-in or self rimming and it sits on top of the counter. This is the traditional option for bathroom sinks.

Under mount is another method that puts the sink under the counter and creates a smooth line that is modern and stylish. A vessel sink sits on top of the counter like a bowl, only attached. Glass is often used with this option and it is stylish and contemporary. Pedestal sinks attach to the wall and to the pedestal beneath them. They have almost no counter space and are ideal for small bathrooms were space is limited.

Wall mounted sinks are another option for small bathrooms. They do not even come with the pedestal but are supported by being mounted to the wall. It can give a small bathroom a more spacious feel, but you do not have any storage. It is the ideal choice for a guest bath or even in a utility or laundry room where you need to wash your hands but not do much else.

Choosing the right sink for your kitchen or bathroom depends on how much space you have and what style you are looking for. You also have to consider your budget and how durable the sink needs to be. It is the focal point for bathrooms and often for kitchens, so spend some time deciding on the right one.

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